Diamond Valley Area, Nevada, Parts of Elko, Eureka and White Pine Counties
The dominant drainage class is Well drained and the dominant hydrologic group is D (very slow infiltration, high runoff). This report summarizes the major soil map units across the survey area to help you understand what to expect when buying, building, or gardening in Diamond Valley Area, Nevada, Parts of Elko, Eureka and White Pine Counties.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alhambra-Kobeh complex | 32K | Well drained | A | Very limited | Somewhat limited |
| Playas | 29K | Very poorly drained | Very limited | Very limited | |
| Fera-Roca association | 22K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Dianev silt loam | 21K | Somewhat poorly drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Playas-Dianev complex | 20K | Very poorly drained | Very limited | Very limited | |
| Hymas-Ansping association | 20K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Fusulina-Sheege association | 18K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Rubyhill-Barrier association | 15K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Hopeka-Cavehill association | 15K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Umil loam, 2 to 8 percent slopes | 15K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Kobeh gravelly sandy loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 14K | Somewhat excessively drained | A | Not limited | Not limited |
| Bartine-Overland association | 13K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Labshaft-Rock outcrop complex | 13K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Kobeh sandy loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 12K | Somewhat excessively drained | A | Not limited | Not limited |
| Sheege-Croesus association | 12K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ratto gravelly fine sandy loam, 2 to 8 percent slopes | 10K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Umil association | 9K | Well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Alhambra fine sandy loam | 9K | Well drained | A | Very limited | Somewhat limited |
| Fairydell gravelly loam, 15 to 30 percent slopes | 9K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ridit-Alpha association | 9K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 91% of soils are rated "very limited" for dwellings with basements. Specific challenges include shallow bedrock, steep slopes, poor drainage in some areas, flood-prone areas. A geotechnical assessment is recommended before building.
Septic Systems
About 78% of soils are rated "very limited" for septic absorption fields. Despite good drainage overall, limitations may stem from shallow bedrock, steep slopes, or seasonal conditions. Engineered or alternative systems are frequently required. Always get a professional perc test before purchasing land that needs septic.
Gardening & Agriculture
Well-drained soils on sloped terrain — good for most plants but watch for erosion. Terracing, contour planting, and mulching help retain moisture and topsoil. Drip irrigation is more effective than sprinklers on slopes.